It’s here! The time has come for your big interview, the one you’ve been working hard to secure. You’ve got the outfit picked out, you’ve practiced your handshake and smile… but butterflies have taken up residence in your stomach.
It’s perfectly understandable to have nerves before an interview! But don’t let them get the best of you.
Here’s how to calm your pre-interview jitters.
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Do your homework.
Take a little time before the interview to read up on the company. See who their competition is, but also make note of their latest big announcement, any social initiatives in which they’ve participated, any donations, or on the other hand, any issues or concerns that have been raised. Look again at the job description for the position you’re interviewing for and prepare some questions in advance in order to both show your interest and to get additional information.
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Practice, practice, practice.
In addition to practicing your confident, winning smile in a mirror, run a few practice interviews with a friend or relative. Have them ask you some of the basic questions asked in most interviews — where do you see yourself in five years, why do you think you’d be a good fit for this job, what do you bring to the table that other candidates don’t, etc. — and run through your answers so you feel prepared and ready to deliver them thoughtfully and with confidence.
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Remember that you’re interviewing the company too.
A job interview is a good chance to learn more about a potential employer while they’re learning about you as a potential employee. In addition to doing a little preparation work to know more about the company before you go in, remember that you’re trying to get a sense of whether this will be a good fit for you. Pay attention to how you’re feeling and whether you’re excited about the possibility — you have power in the interview as well! This is ultimately a conversation between two parties trying to determine if they should go into business together.
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Try taking a short walk and focusing on your breathing.
Sometimes we have nervous energy, and there’s nothing we can do about it. Except there is: Go for a walk before getting ready for the interview. Get rid of some of those pre-interview jitters by exerting a little excess energy. If you’re still feeling fluttery after that’s done, or you find yourself getting anxious again before the interview starts, close your eyes and focus on your breathing. Try using the box breathing method: Take a deep breath in through your nose while counting to five, hold it for five seconds, and then exhale slowly through your mouth for five seconds. Repeat this a few times to center yourself and bring down your nerves.
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Give yourself a pep talk.
You know how hard you’ve worked. You know why you feel you’re a good choice for this job and why you’re the person to get it. Think back on all you’ve accomplished in your life, all the hurdles you’ve cleared to get what you want. And remember, if this job doesn’t work out, there are others out there — this just wasn’t the right one for you. You deserve this opportunity, and you will land a great job!
Interviews can be fun in addition to stressful, but don’t worry too much. The last thing you want to do is go into that room looking unsure of yourself and lacking in confidence — you won’t have a chance.
If you’re continuing to look for a new opportunity, why not look at Debbie’s Staffing? We have a robust job board with tons of great jobs and companies that are looking for candidates just like you. Give Debbie’s Staffing a call today, and let’s see how we can help!
